Crazy Train – Ozzy Osbourne

Learn to master one of rock’s most iconic anthems with LickLibrary’s note-for-note guitar lesson for “Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osbourne. This comprehensive guitar tutorial breaks down every riff, lick, and solo from the track, helping guitarists of all levels nail the techniques that made Randy Rhoads a legend. Packed with essential rock and metal guitar skills, this lesson is an absolute must for anyone looking to improve their playing, expand their musical vocabulary, and gain insight into the groundbreaking style of one of guitar’s most celebrated virtuosos. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song and Guitarist

“Crazy Train,” released in 1980 on Ozzy Osbourne’s debut solo album Blizzard of Ozz, is a defining track of heavy metal history. The song features the late Randy Rhoads, whose virtuosic blend of classical influences, aggressive metal rhythm work, and melodic soloing redefined guitar playing for generations to come. Rhoads’ contributions to guitar technique and tone still echo through the playing styles of today’s rock and metal guitarists.

Rhoads’ approach on “Crazy Train” combines power, finesse, and a deep understanding of musical dynamics. From fast-picked riffs to expressive vibrato, the song is a masterclass in lead and rhythm guitar work.

Song Breakdown and Techniques Covered

Our LickLibrary lesson for “Crazy Train” walks you through the entire track, from the unmistakable intro riff to the soaring guitar solo and tight rhythmic groove of the verse and chorus. Along the way, you’ll encounter a range of essential techniques that are broken down and demonstrated clearly and effectively.

Alternate Picking

The opening riff and verse feature tight, precise alternate picking. Mastering this technique helps build speed and accuracy while promoting clean note separation—key elements of metal and rock rhythm guitar.

Vibrato

Rhoads’ lead lines are infused with expressive vibrato, adding emotion and character to sustained notes. Learning to control vibrato enhances your phrasing and gives your solos a professional, polished feel.

Palm Muting

Throughout the verse and chorus sections, palm muting gives the riffs a chunky, percussive edge. This technique is crucial for developing a tight rhythm tone and adds dynamic control to your playing.

Power Chords

As a staple of the song’s structure, power chords form the harmonic backbone of the rhythm parts. They’re perfect for delivering a heavy, driving sound and are foundational in nearly all rock and metal styles.

Legato

In the solo section, Rhoads employs fluid legato runs, combining hammer-ons and pull-offs to create seamless, speedy lines. This technique boosts finger strength and coordination while allowing for rapid note execution.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

Connected to the legato passages, hammer-ons and pull-offs are used to enhance the phrasing and speed of melodic lines. Practicing these improves your finger dexterity and fluidity.

String Bending and Bluesy Bends

Randy’s blues-influenced licks incorporate expressive string bending and bluesy bends, adding emotion and a vocal-like quality to the solos. Learning proper bending technique is vital for expressive soloing.

Pinched Harmonics

One of the signature moments in the solo includes screaming pinched harmonics. These squeals cut through the mix and add attitude to your playing. Mastering them adds flair and excitement to your solos.

Trills

Some melodic passages feature quick-fire trills, which add urgency and intensity. Trills are excellent for building finger strength and stamina while enhancing your ornamentation vocabulary.

Unison Bends

The solo also showcases expressive unison bends, where two strings are played together, with one being bent to match the other. This technique creates a powerful, singing lead tone that grabs attention and enhances phrasing.

Benefits of Learning “Crazy Train”

Learning “Crazy Train” with LickLibrary offers more than just a song—it’s a deep dive into essential rock guitar fundamentals. You’ll improve timing, articulation, fretboard knowledge, and gain insight into phrasing and dynamics. Whether you're a beginner looking to push into intermediate territory, or an advanced player wanting to refine your technique, this lesson provides invaluable insights and tools.

By studying Randy Rhoads’ guitar work, you also gain a better appreciation for musical structure and melodic composition within the rock genre. The lesson is paced to help you master every section with clarity, ensuring you can confidently perform the song from start to finish.

Guitar Techniques Used in this Lesson

• Alternate Picking
• Vibrato
• Palm Muting
• Power Chords
• Legato
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• String Bending
• Bluesy Bends
• Pinched Harmonics
• Trills
• Unison Bends

Jump into this LickLibrary lesson and take a thrilling ride on the “Crazy Train.” Master the song, absorb the techniques, and elevate your guitar playing to legendary status.